Outreach Strategies

Evangelistic Movements: An Outcome-Based Analysis

Keith Davy

Strategic planning should always be informed by strategic analysis. Current priorities should be determined by current realities. One powerful tool for strategic analysis is an Outcome-Based Assessment. The following Outcome-based Assessment has been developed for use with evangelistic movements (or communities).

EVANGELISTIC MOVEMENTS

What is an evangelistic movement? How would you know if you have one? An evangelistic movement can be characterized by five primary outcomes:

1. Believers are experiencing the spiritual dynamics of witness.

2. Gospel conversations are common.

3. Believers are growing in their ability to communicate the gospel with clarity and relevance.

4. Leaders and laborers are working together in effective outreaches.

5. New believers are being established in the faith and engaged in the movement.

Together these five desirable outcomes provide a balanced description of the type of evangelistic movement we seek to build. They also provide the basis for evaluating the evangelistic health and momentum of our current movements. Honest evaluation provides the critical insights needed for identifying the most effective plans and tactics.

[For the philosophical framework of these outcomes, see the article “Evangelism Design” at Crupress Green.]

INSTRUCTIONS

In the accompanying table (download the PDF above), three to four key indicators accompany each outcome to help assess its relative strength or weakness. Rate each indicator on a scale of 1 to 7. When doing the evaluation as a missional team, have each member evaluate individually. After tabulating the team’s answers for each indicator, discuss the movement’s strengths and weaknesses.

Based on the movement’s stage of development and capacity, identify the two or three areas that need priority and focus. Brainstorm new ideas; seek out best practices from other leaders and teams; consider national resources and opportunities.
[See: “Outreach Strategies” category at www.crupress.com/green, and particularly “Gospel for Every Student – Resource List”.]

Your evangelism plan should include priorities and action plans that address two or three of the areas of weakness, while sustaining the areas of strength.